Preserving Kobe: Lakers coach Byron Scott wants Bryant to keep playing, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep his star on the court.

Throughout a 5-14 start to the season, Bryant has been a bright spot. He’s leading the NBA in scoring with a 26.0 average in nearly 36 minutes per game.

“The one thing I’ve got to do is look at his minutes, and make sure I don’t go overboard,” Scott said.

Bryant played 33 minutes in Tuesday night’s win at Detroit and said afterward he was tired. Scott says Bryant, 36, can set his own schedule — for practice.

“I don’t need him in practice at all, to be honest with you,” Scott said.

Cousins out of hospital: Kings center DeMarcus Cousins, who has missed the last three games with illness, has been released from the hospital after receiving treatment for a viral infection that will keep him sidelined through the weekend. Cousins is averaging 23.5 points, 12.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.